Sandy Lipkowitz
We Make Travel Easy
Wonders of Colombia
May 7, 2025 to May 21, 2025
Cartagena, Magdalena River, Medellin
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Colombia, the "Land of a Thousand Rhythms," as you journey along the magnificent Magdalena River aboard AMA Waterways AmaMagdalena. Explore the streets of Palenque, the first free city in Colombia, moving to the rhythms of cumbia and vallenato music. Delight in the colorful neighborhood of Getsemaní in Cartagena, a vibrant neighborhood and a creative hub of Colombian artistry. Discover how Spanish and pre-colonial cultures combined to bring us the music, minds, and culture that shape the country today. Let these breathtaking destinations inspire you as you embrace the soul of this mesmerizing river and the heart-warming people who live alongside it.
May 10, 2025 - CARTAGENA – EMBARKATION 
Arrive in Cartagena, the beautiful capital of the Bolivar region located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. After settling into your stateroom, enjoy a tour through the breathtaking Getsemaní neighborhood. With the vibrant colors of the homes and street art as well as the mouthwatering local delicacies that can be found throughout the area, this historic neighborhood will delight all your senses. Upon returning to your ship, embark on your journey along the magical Magdalena River. (D)
May 11, 2025 - GAMBOTE (PALENQUE) – CALAMAR
In the morning, experience the town of Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas. Founded by those who fled a life of slavery during colonial times, the spirit and appearance of this town has been preserved through time. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a Royal Decree that officially freed the people of Palenque from slavery. Immerse yourself in the town’s deeply rooted culture and traditions, which are so distinct that UNESCO declared Palenque to be a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. An important piece of their heritage is the music and rhythmic style that was developed in this city, which you will enjoy during a special performance by local musicians. Later in the day, visit Calamar. Located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique, this town was first settled in 1840. Witness historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception as you tour this beautiful destination by paola (a bicycle taxi for two). (B, L, D)
May 12, 2025 - SANTA BARBARA DE PINTO - MOMPOX
Spend your morning in Santa Barbara de Pinto, located on the banks of the Momp ox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy a walking tour through this traditional town, where you may see local landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church and enjoy intricate hand-made crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive at the island town of Mompox, where you will be welcomed with open arms and lively music during an exclusive jazz performance played by local musicians. (B,L,D)
May 13, 2025 - MOMPOX
A town frozen in time, Mompox embodies the appearance of what many villages looked like during colonial times. Founded in 1540, this remote village became an important Spanish trading post. Some Spaniards found Mompox to be a haven for keeping gold and other treasure protected from the pirates that pillaged coastal cities like Cartagena, and with this precious metal and the work of skilled artisans from Spain came beautifully crafted artifacts. Since then, the town has become famous for its incredible filigree jewelry, which you can learn more about during your tour of this town in the afternoon. While visiting the largest inland island in Latin America, journey through the incredible ecological Ciénaga Pijiño region, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region. In the afternoon, take a stroll through this storied town on a guided walking tour. With stunning colonial churches, breathtaking nature surrounding the town, and delicious local delights such as capa cheese and butifarra, Mompox is sure to be a highlight of your journey along the magnificent Magdalena River. (B, L, D)
May 14, 2025 - MOMPOX – EL BAN
Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River – a
picturesque part
of the La Mojana region – and reaching the town of El Banco, nestled at the intersection of the Magdalena and César rivers. Founded in a strategic location for both the native people and the Spaniards, the town was repeatedly destroyed in their struggles and then rebuilt atop its ashes. In 1749, a freed black slave named José Domingo Ortiz led a group of settlers to this special location, carrying with him a statue of the Virgin Mary, staking this place as their
new home. Because of this connection, the Virgin of Candelaria — a special invocation of the Virgin Mary — is specially venerated in this region. Embark
on a guided walking tour of this incredible destination and learn more about its history as the birthplace of cumbia, an iconic genre of music and dance
that has now been popularized around the world. What began as a courtship dance practiced by African slaves later incorporated American steps and European and African instruments has become a worldwide sensation, which is especially popular in the Andean region of Colombia. In the evening,
enjoy an exclusive dinner in town and witness an incredible cumbia performance by locals. (B, L, D)
May 15, 2025 - MAGANGUE 
Witness the sights, hear the bird calls, and watch the wildlife around you as spend the day docked near Magangue. Immerse yourself in the presence of Colombian nature surrounding this city on a birdwatching tour, giving you a unique opportunity to see birds only found in this specific part of the country. You can also take a hiking tour through the picturesque cienága, teeming with Colombian wildlife. (B,L,D)
May 16, 2025 - NEUVA VENECIA – BARRANQUILLA
In the morning, visit the Floating Village of Nueva Venecia. A charming town filled with inviting locals, Nueva Venecia, or “New Venice,” can only be navigated by boat. With its beautiful colonial houses, vivid architecture and local sanctuary protecting the native flora and fauna, this town highlights the beauty and warmth of Colombia. 
Witness its splendor as you tour the village. While here, explore this village and learn more about the lives of its people during a guided tour. Enjoy the traditional crafts and art that is on display, learn about the techniques the fishermen of Nueva Venecia use, and taste the local delicacies as you embrace this village and its unique culture. Later in the day, venture to the beautiful seaside city of Barranquilla, a vibrant destination home to notable musicians, writers and artists. Immerse yourself in the warmth and culture of the city’s atmosphere as you venture through this magnificent location, where you may visit famous landmarks such as the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the magical Magdalena River meets the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, and the “Carnaval” Museum, which showcases the unique history of this incredible festival. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive “Carnaval” celebration just for AmaWaterways guests as we bring the full traditional experience to our guests all-year round. (B,L,D)
May 17, 2025 - BARRANQUILLA – DISEMBARKATION
Bid your ship and crew farewell as you disembark and prepare for your flight home. (B)
Click here to view the AmaMagdalena's Deck Plan:
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
- 7-night river cruise in elegantly appointed twin balcony stateroom aboard the AmaMagdalena.
- Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, and music library
- Fresh water replenished daily
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
- Complimentary Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes
- The services of one of AmaWaterways’ wonderful Cruise Managers throughout your river cruise and land journey
- Nightly entertainment including cultural performances
- High speed Wi-Fi
- Sun-deck pool
- Fitness room
- Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
AWARD-WINNING DINING
- All fine dining on board, plus a special dinner on shore in El Banco
- Wine, beer and soft drinks included during lunch and dinner
- Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
- A variety of excursions, including birdwatching and boat tours
- 24/7 Colombian coffee and tea station
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
- Immersive excursions in every destination
- Exclusive year-round Carnaval Celebration in Barranquilla and cumbia performance in El Banco
- A knowledgeable guide who will accompany you along your river cruise journey
- Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
- Air where noted
- Travel Insurance - We strongly recommend Insurance - Ask us for a quote!
Cancellation policy: 
CARTAGENA
WEDNESDAY / 07 MAY 25
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MEET & GREET AT CARTAGENA AIRPORT / TRANSFER TO HOTEL- One Group Transfer |
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Transportation: Luxury Vehicle |
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Duration: Approximately 15 minutes. |
Welcome Dinner at Vedanna Restaurant. . Time to be determined.
THURSDAY / 08 MAY 25
09:30 AM • STORIES & PEOPLE OF EL CENTRO
• Wander the streets of Cartagena’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along side a fascinating expert who will provide in-depth historical context and captivating stories of the city's people and culture.
NOTE: Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, hat and sunscreen!
Included: Local expert, Hydration. Duration: 2-3 hours (walking)
04:00 PM • RUM & CHOCOLATE TASTING
• Alongside an expert, learn about the intricacies of rum, the various production methods, and how to identify the flavors and characteristics of different types and ages of rums. Pair some of Colombia’s most exclusive rums with different premium Colombian chocolates, and hear the history of cacao and chocolate in different regions.
Included: Private session with a rum expert, Rum samples, Hydration Duration: 1.5 hours (An English-speaking host will walk you to the location)
FRIDAY / 09 MAY 25
09:00 AM • PIRATES & FORTIFICATIONS OF CARTEGENA
• Take a private transfer to Castillo de San Felipe fortress accompanied by a local history expert. Explore dark tunnels and look -out points, while recounting captivating stories and military strategy tactics used to defend Cartagena from pirates and invaders. Note - Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, hat and sunscreen!
Included: Transportation, Local Expert, Hydration, Entrance fees
Duration: 2-3 hours including driving time
4:00 pm MIXOLOGY 101 • Alongside some of the top bartenders in Cartagena, learn how to create unique and creative cocktails. Learn to use different types of bartending tools, mixology techniques, local ingredients, and cool decorations to prepare amazing cocktails.
Included: Private session with a bartender, Ingredients, Liquors
Duration: 1 - 2 hours (An English-speaking host will walk you to the location
SATURDAY / 10 MAY 25
DROP OFF FROM HOTEL IN CARTAGENA TO CRUISE PORT
11:00 am DROP OFF FROM HOTEL IN CARTAGENA TO CRUISE PORT • A driver and English-speaking host will accompany guests to the port.
Transportation: Luxury Vehicle
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
Begin your AMA Waterways Wonders of Colombia River Cruise!
BARRANQUILLA
SATURDAY / 17 MAY 25
11:00 AM • TRANSFER FROM PIER TO BARRANQUILLA AIRPORT • A driver and English-speaking host will accompany guests to the airport. Please note that our suggested times are based on the airline recommendations to arrive 2 hours in advance for domestic flights
Transportation: Standard Vehicle
Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
02:24 pm Flight Barranquilla > Medellin (02:24 pm- 03:42 pm) 1,688
Avianca AV8573, Barranquilla
Class: Economy
Luggage restrictions: Carry-on: 1x10 kg/22 lbs + checked luggage: 1x23 kg/50 lbs
MEDELLIN
03:42 PM • MEET & GREET AT MEDELLIN MDE AIRPORT / TRANSFER TO HOTEL
• A driver and English-speaking host will be waiting at the airport to
accompany guests to the hotel. Please note the meeting point is outside of the arrivals area. Clients must pass immigration and collect their luggage on their own. This service does not include a fast-track or VIP assistance.
Transportation: Luxury Vehicle
Included: Bottled water and snacks
Duration: Approximately 30 – 45 minutes.
SUNDAY / 18 MAY 25 
11:00 am STREET FOOD TASTING• Experience the most authentic of Colombian flavors on a unique street food experience in Envigado. Explore different shops, markets and restaurants with your local Host sampling fritos, frutas and the local dish Bandeja Paisa - all washed down with a sharp sip of Aguardiente!
Included: Transportation, English-speaking Host, Food Samples.
Duration: 3 hours
02:00 pm SOCIAL INNOVATION OF MEDELLIN • Learn about the social and cultural transformation Medellin has undergone in recent years, going from the most dangerous to the most innovative city in the world. Visit some of the neighborhoods that have been the epicenter of this dramatic change, and ride the escalators and gondola systems that revolutionized life for locals. Meet friendly neighbors, learn about Medellin’s difficult past during the era of Escobar, and discover the vibrant street art that reflects progression and change.
• NOTE: Please wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen! The locations of the experience may vary depending to avoid large crowds and provide a more unique experience.
Included: English-speaking expert, Vehicle availability, Hydration
Duration: 2-3 hours + approx. 30 minutes driving from the hotel (each way)
MONDAY / 19 MAY 25
09:00 am ANDEAN TOWNS & FLOWERS
• Drive 45 minutes from Medellin to a small colonial town in the middle of the Andes mountains. Stroll around the town, enjoy a coffee and some traditional street food, and learn about life in the countryside. Continue driving 30-40 minutes to a private hacienda that is home to one of the most exquisite collections of orchids in Colombia, with over 6,000 specimens from all over the world.
Continue exploring the family’s property and visit the breathtaking hydrangea fields, and enjoy lunch surrounded by flowers and verdant landscapes. Drive 1 hour back to Medellin.
Included: Transportation, English-speaking Host, Hydration, Snacks, Lunch, 1 cup of wine or beer per guest.
Duration: 4-5 hours + approx. 1-1.5 hours driving each way
TUESDAY / 20 MAY 25
09:00 AM • TRADITIONAL COLOMBIAN COFFEE
• Visit a traditional coffee hacienda where you will learn the entire coffee process and lifestyle from a local coffee farmer. Walk among the crops, where they will teach you how they manually harvest manual the ripe grains. Continue to the mill to observe the pulping and drying by hand. Then you will see the roasting process where the coffee is ground, and finally we will prepare a delicious cup to enjoy while learning about the essential characteristics for tasty drink.
Included: Transportation, English-speaking Host, Entrance fee, Hydration, Snacks.
Lunch not included
Duration: 4 hours + approx. 30 minutes driving each way
02:00 PM • MADE IN COLOMBIA: MEDELLIN EDITION • Get insider access to Medellin’s fashion and design scene, one of the most colorful and exciting in Latin America. Shop at the boutiques of renowned designers, ateliers of trendy emerging designers, and learn about the influences of Colombian artisans and cultural traditions in the textures and colors used.
NOTE: Prior to departing, discuss with the fashion expert your style, budget, and interests, to ensure you visit the right spots!
Included: Transportation, Fashion expert, Hydration
Duration: 3-4 hours + approx.10 minutes driving from the hotel (each way)
07:00 pm FAREWELL DINNER AT ALAMBIQUE
• Trendy style restaurant, where Medellín’s in-crowd savor experimental Colombian dishes, cocktails and funky music.
WEDNESDAY / 21 MAY 25
DROP OFF FROM HOTEL TO MEDELLIN MDE AIRPORT –• A driver and English-speaking host will accompany guests to the airport. Please note that our suggested times are based on the airline recommendations to arrive 3 hours in advance for international departures.
One Group transfer. Individual transfers would be at an additional cost.
Transportation: Luxury Vehicle
Included: Bottled water and snacks
Duration: Approximately 30 – 45 minutes
ANANDA HOTEL- CARTAGENA:
Located in the heart of the Old City, Anandá offers a charming colonial space with sophisticated contemporary touches. Its outdoor swimming pool is framed by the original feature wall, and its stylish rooftop offers spectacular views over the city.
EL CIELO HOTEL- MEDELLIN:
Named after its eponymous restaurant, El Cielo features 28 suites tucked inside an unassuming façade in the El Poblado, one of Medellín’s most affluent neighborhoods, steps away from the best cafes, boutiques and restaurants. The design-focused rooms at El Cielo feature king-size beds, freestanding tubs, and luxury finishes that offer a respite from the buzzing city.
- A deposit of 20% of total amount + Supplier deposits* is required to confirm reservations. Full payment is due 45 days prior to date of arrival.
- The following conditions would apply in case of cancellation:
- 46 days or more prior to arrival: penalty of 20% of booking + bank fees + expenses*
- 45-31 days prior to arrival: penalty of 40% of booking + bank fees + expenses*
Available Packages
Ama Waterways Category C
Available until
February 9, 2025
- available
Starting At: $3,349.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Price reflected is $3599.00 per person double occupancy minus the $250pp Group Discount equals $3349pp Double Occupancy
Price reflected is $5398.00 per person single occupancy minus the $250pp Group Discount equals $5148pp Single Occupancy
Price includes a $250pp Group Discount. Port taxes are $210pp additional
Ama Waterways Category B
Available until
February 9, 2025
- available
Starting At: $4,048.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Price reflected is $4298.00 per person double occupancy minus the $250pp Group Discount equals $4048pp Double Occupancy
Price reflected is $6447.00 per person single occupancy minus the $250pp Group Discount equals $6197pp Single Occupancy
Price includes a $250pp Group Discount. Port taxes are $210.00pp additional
Ama Waterways Category A
Available until
February 9, 2025
- available
Starting At: $4,348.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Price reflected is $4598.00 per person double occupancy minus the $250pp Group Discount equals $4348pp Double Occupancy
Price reflected is $6897.00 per person single occupancy minus the $250pp Group Discount equals $6647pp Single Occupancy
Price includes a $250pp Group Discount. Port taxes are $210.00pp additional
Ama Waterways Luxury Suite
Available until
February 9, 2025
- available
Starting At: $5,348.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Ama Waterways Grand Suite
Available until
February 9, 2025
- available
Starting At: $6,348.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Extra Options
3 nights pre & 4 nights post
Available until
March 28, 2025
- available
$4,695.00
Deposit: $939.00
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May 8 - STORIES & PEOPLE OF EL CENTRO - Wander the streets of Cartagena’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside a fascinating expert who will provide in-depth historical context and captivating stories of the city's people and culture.
RUM & CHOCOLATE TASTING- Alongside an expert, learn about the intricacies of rum, the various production methods, and how to identify the flavors and characteristics of different types and ages of rums
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May 10 - TRANSFER FROM HOTEL IN CARTAGENA TO CRUISE PORT
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- A deposit of 20% of total amount + Supplier deposits* is required to confirm reservations. Full payment is due 45 days prior to date of arrival.
- The following conditions would apply in case of cancellation:
- 46 days or more prior to arrival: penalty of 20% of booking + bank fees + expenses*
- 45-31 days prior to arrival: penalty of 40% of booking + bank fees + expenses*